Global fire protection system pipes market forecast shows promising growth

by Featured NewsPassiveResearch

Market overview: Fire Protection System Pipes

Allied Market Research has released a report titled “Fire protection system pipes market by material type, application, and end user: global opportunity analysis and industry forecast, 2023-2032.”

The global market for fire protection system pipes was valued at $20,229.8 million in 2022 and is anticipated to expand to $34,744.2 million by 2032.

This growth corresponds to a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.68% from 2023 to 2032.

The report highlights North America as a leading consumer in the fire protection system pipes sector, attributing this to the booming construction industry and a heightened focus on fire safety.

Additionally, the market is experiencing a significant push from the oil & gas industry, alongside rapid urban development in countries like India, China, and Brazil.

Material and application insights

The study further segments the market based on material type, application, and end user, providing detailed insights into various aspects of the market.

The steel segment, known for its robustness and durability, dominated the market in 2022, capturing more than half of the overall revenue.

It is expected to maintain its dominant position through the forecast period.

On the other hand, the CPVC segment is predicted to witness the highest CAGR of 5.6% due to its advantages such as fire resistance, availability, and cost-effectiveness.

In terms of application, the fire suppression segment took the lead in 2022, securing nearly four-fifths of the market share, driven by increasing demand across manufacturing and chemical industries.

Meanwhile, the fire sprinkler segment is projected to achieve the highest CAGR of 6%, spurred by growing requirements in residential and institutional sectors.

End-user and regional dynamics

The commercial segment emerged as the largest end-user in 2022, thanks to significant contributions from developing regions such as China, Japan, India, and Africa.

The industrial segment is anticipated to exhibit the highest CAGR of 5.7% from 2023 to 2032, reflecting broader economic growth and industrialisation across these nations.

Region-wise, Asia-Pacific led the market in 2022, accounting for more than half of the total revenue, and is expected to continue its leadership.

The Latin America, Middle East, and Africa (LAMEA) region, however, is forecasted to experience the fastest growth, with a CAGR of 6.9%, attributed to rapid urbanisation and industrialisation in these areas.

IFSJ Comment

The upward trajectory of the fire protection system pipes market underscores the critical role these systems play in modern infrastructure, ensuring safety and compliance across a broad spectrum of industries and residential areas.

The report from Allied Market Research provides a comprehensive analysis, indicating a steady demand for fire protection solutions worldwide.

This growth is fuelled by technological advancements, stringent safety regulations, and a global emphasis on disaster preparedness and risk mitigation.

As urbanisation and industrial activities continue to surge, particularly in developing regions, the importance of adopting and integrating advanced fire protection systems cannot be overstated.

The market’s evolution reflects ongoing efforts to enhance safety standards, catering to the diverse needs of commercial, industrial, and institutional sectors.

Fire department software market to reach over $4 billion by 2029

by Featured NewsResearch

Market overview

The fire department software market is poised for significant growth, with projections indicating an expansion at a CAGR of 12.58% between 2022 and 2029, culminating in a value of US$4.071 billion by the end of the forecast period.

This surge is attributed to the software’s critical role in enhancing safety and operational efficiency within fire departments.

The increasing frequency of fire incidents underscores the urgent need for advanced safety systems, exemplified by a report from the Philippines Bureau of Fire Protection noting a nearly 40% rise in fires during April 2023 compared to the previous year.

Technological advancements fuel market growth

Technological innovation and the shift towards cloud-based solutions are key drivers in the fire department software sector.

January 2024 saw C-Tec unveil Envision, a cloud-based fire alarm software facilitating real-time fire monitoring.

September 2023 marked Halma’s introduction of HFI, a new fire safety business in India, further evidencing the market’s dynamism.

Segmentation insights

The market is dissected based on software type, deployment, enterprise size, and end-user demographics.

Fire detection software, pivotal for its real-time hazard analysis capabilities, claims a substantial market share.

Cloud deployment, favoured for its accessibility, is becoming increasingly prevalent.

Large enterprises represent a significant user base, leveraging the software’s comprehensive management tools.

Among end-users, building owners and property managers are notable for their reliance on these systems to comply with safety regulations and mitigate risks.

Regional growth trends

The Asia Pacific region is earmarked for a considerable market share, propelled by rising fire incidents and a heightened focus on safety protocols.

The Australian Government’s data, citing over 81,000 fire events in 2021, underscores the regional urgency for improved fire safety measures.

IFSJ Comment

The projected growth of the fire department software market, marked by significant technological advancements and a shift towards cloud-based solutions, indicates a broader trend towards modernising safety protocols and emergency response mechanisms.

As the market continues to evolve, the emphasis on innovation and efficiency will likely lead to further advancements and an expanded adoption of fire department software solutions, ultimately contributing to safer communities and more resilient emergency response frameworks.

Electric vehicle fire protection materials market set for growth, protecting a US$3.5 trillion industry

by Featured NewsResearch

The importance of fire safety in electric vehicles

Electric vehicle (EV) fire safety is an increasingly critical area of focus.

Despite electric vehicles being less likely to catch fire than those with internal combustion engines, the risks associated with thermal runaway—a condition where an increase in temperature leads to a self-sustaining reaction—are of paramount concern.

Dr James Edmondson, addressing the issue, highlighted the importance of fire protection materials in mitigating these risks.

“Fire protection materials are the primary method of either preventing the propagation of thermal runaway or delaying its progression long enough to meet regulations and provide safety for occupants,” he stated.

With the EV market expected to reach a valuation of US$3.5 trillion by 2044, spanning a diverse range of vehicles from cars to air taxis, ensuring the safety of occupants and their surroundings becomes indispensable.

This backdrop underscores the growing significance of advancements in fire protection materials within the industry.

Emerging trends in battery design and fire protection

The landscape of EV battery design is evolving, with manufacturers employing various cell formats and battery structures.

IDTechEx’s recent report, “Fire Protection Materials for EV Batteries 2024-2034: Markets, Trends, and Forecasts“, sheds light on these developments.

It was found that in 2022, 55% of new electric cars sold utilised prismatic battery cells, while pouch cells accounted for 24%, with the remainder using cylindrical formats.

These design choices significantly influence the selection and application of fire protection materials.

The report also explores the key properties required for optimal fire protection materials, including thermal conductivity, density, and cost-effectiveness.

It points out the necessity of a holistic approach to selecting these materials, where factors such as weight, volume, and compatibility with other materials are taken into account to ensure effective fire safety measures.

A diverse range of materials for EV fire safety

The study by IDTechEx highlights a variety of materials being adopted for EV battery fire protection, from ceramic blankets and mica sheets to aerogels and encapsulating foams.

Notably, aerogels are gaining traction in the market, with significant adoption in China and by global automakers like GM, Toyota, and Audi.

The innovation in fire protection materials also extends to polymers with fire-retardant or intumescent properties, offering potentially lighter and more cost-effective alternatives to traditional materials.

The future of fire protection in the EV market

The report anticipates the EV battery fire protection material market will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 16.1% between 2023 and 2034.

This growth is driven by the increasing emphasis on battery safety in regulatory frameworks and the continuous efforts by vehicle manufacturers to enhance safety features while maintaining cost efficiency.

The evolving battery design landscape, including shifts towards cell-to-pack configurations, further accentuates the need for innovative fire protection solutions.

IFSJ comment

The emphasis on fire protection materials in the electric vehicle industry is a testament to the sector’s commitment to safety and innovation.

As the EV market continues to expand, the development and integration of advanced fire protection technologies will play a crucial role in safeguarding occupants and ensuring the long-term success of the industry.

The collaborative efforts between material suppliers, automakers, and regulatory bodies to address the challenges of thermal runaway and fire safety are pivotal in driving the EV market towards a safer and more sustainable future.

Residential and commercial fire safety focus drives 12.2% growth in fire-stopping materials market

by Featured NewsResearch

A surge in construction drives demand for fire safety materials

Future Market Insights, Inc. (FMI) has forecasted a significant growth trajectory for the fire-stopping materials market, attributed to a robust expansion in the construction sector, the implementation of strict safety regulations, and the materials’ application across various industries.

According to a recent FMI report, the market, valued at approximately US$ 2.1 billion in 2024, is expected to witness a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 12.2%, reaching an estimated US$ 6.5 billion by 2034.

The construction industry’s resurgence, particularly post-pandemic, has catalysed the demand for effective fire stopping solutions.

These materials, including sealants, mortars, and coatings, are increasingly recognized as essential for complying with rigorous safety standards in both new constructions and renovation projects.

Diverse applications across industries bolster market growth

Fire stopping materials are not limited to the construction and infrastructure sectors.

Their adaptability renders them suitable for a wide range of sectors such as manufacturing, oil and gas, aerospace, electrical, and telecommunications.

The demand in these sectors is primarily due to the materials’ efficacy in safeguarding crucial assets and equipment from fire hazards.

The adoption of these materials is also gaining momentum for their critical role in enhancing the safety of high-rise structures.

Regulatory authorities and building codes are instrumental in advocating for the use of fire-stopping materials in various public and private buildings, including educational institutions, hospitals, and theatres.

Consequently, countries like China, the United States, Japan, and the United Kingdom are leading the global demand for these safety materials.

Nikhil Kaitwade, Associate Vice President at Future Market Insights, Inc., emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts in integrating these materials into construction projects: “Companies must often collaborate with construction companies, architects, regulatory bodies, and other stakeholders to ensure that fire stopping materials are integrated seamlessly into building designs and projects.”

Market insights reveal leading segments and regional growth

The report highlights the sealants segment as the dominant force in the global fire stopping material market.

With respect to applications, the electrical sector leads, showcasing a CAGR of 11.80% through to 2034.

The market in the United States is projected to expand at a CAGR of 12.50%, while South Korea’s market is anticipated to grow at an impressive 14.20% CAGR.

Japan and China are also expected to witness significant growth rates of 13.80% and 12.80% CAGR, respectively, with the United Kingdom’s market growing at a CAGR of 13.20% through 2034.

IFSJ Comment

The fire-stopping materials market is poised for substantial growth, driven by the critical need for enhanced safety measures in both residential and commercial buildings.

The demand is bolstered by the construction industry’s recovery, stringent regulatory frameworks, and the materials’ broad applicability across multiple sectors.

As the market continues to evolve, the focus on safety, innovation, and collaboration will remain paramount in protecting lives and properties from fire hazards.

SFPE Foundation funds three new fire safety research projects

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsResearch

The SFPE Foundation has announced the awarding of three research grants, supporting studies on Li-Ion Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) fires, fire testing of resilient and sustainable building materials, and the interface between digital buildings and fire service operations.

This funding aligns with the Grand Challenges Initiative research agenda, aiming to enhance scientific understanding of fire and its interactions.

Understanding Li-Ion BESS fires

The first project, led by Jamie McAllister (PhD, PE) of FireTox LLC, with team members Brandon McCarrick (PE) and Zelda Zhao, focuses on the environmental and health impacts of thermal runaway events in outdoor lithium-ion BESS installations.

The project aims to understand the health and environmental aspects of li-ion BESS fires, including products of combustion, factors influencing propagation, and firefighting tactics.

The team plans to develop a risk analysis of the health and environmental impacts of such fires.

Fire testing of building materials

The second project, under the leadership of Prof. Richard Walls (PhD, MSc, BScEng, GDE, BTh, PrEng) of Stellenbosch University, along with Dr. Natalia Flores-Quiroz, Yohannes Shewalul, and Carlo Kuhn of Ignis Testing, aims to identify sustainable building materials used in construction and their fire testing methods.

This study seeks to address potential fire risks not covered in existing testing methods through further experimental fire testing.

Digital buildings and fire service operations

The third project, led by Dr. Nils Johansson of Lund University, with Dr. Enrico Ronchi and Dr. Katelynn Kapalo, focuses on the flow of digital information from smart buildings to the fire service.

It aims to optimise this flow and integrate data from Smart Firefighting tools for use by incident commanders.

Leslie Marshall, PhD, Director of the SFPE Foundation, expressed enthusiasm for the projects: “We are thrilled that the funding made possible through the Grand Challenges Initiative has enabled us to support not just two, but three exceptional research projects.

“Each project and its dedicated team promise to bring invaluable results and advance the 10-year plan outlined in the GCI white papers.”

The Grand Challenges Initiative, supported by SFPE, Fire Safety Research Institute/UL Research Institutes, Code Red Consultants, FM Global, Harrington Group, Jensen Hughes, and other partners, focuses on pressing global challenges where fire safety science and engineering can contribute to discussions and solutions.

IFSJ Comment

The SFPE Foundation’s funding of these three research projects marks a significant step in addressing key challenges in fire safety engineering and science.

The selected projects cover a wide range of topics, from the environmental and health impacts of Li-Ion BESS fires to the integration of digital technology in fire service operations.

These studies reflect a growing need to understand and mitigate fire risks in a rapidly evolving technological landscape, where traditional fire safety measures may not always apply.

The outcomes of this research will contribute to the scientific community and have practical implications for fire safety professionals, policymakers, and the general public.

By focusing on both the immediate and long-term impacts of fire, the SFPE Foundation demonstrates a comprehensive approach to enhancing fire safety and prevention strategies globally.

Market Analysis: Firefighting Equipment

by Featured NewsFirefighting EquipmentResearch

From gear to communication, IFSJ delves into the diverse market of firefighting equipment and the latest innovations

The market for firefighting equipment is diverse and encompasses various segments including firefighting tools, protective gear, breathing apparatus, handheld detection equipment, communication equipment, and rescue equipment.

Each of these segments plays a critical role in ensuring the safety and effectiveness of fire services across the globe.

Firefighting tools and rescue equipment

This segment encompasses essential items such as hoses, nozzles, cutters, axes, hydraulic rescue tools, ladders, and stretchers.

The demand in this market is propelled by the continuous need for more efficient, durable, and easy-to-handle tools and equipment.

Technological advancements have led to the development of tools and devices that are not only more effective in firefighting and rescue operations but also safer and easier to use under challenging conditions.

Additionally, the global increase in fire incidents, both in urban and wildland settings, has necessitated a steady demand for innovative firefighting tools and rescue equipment, with growth driven by factors like urbanisation and the increasing complexity of rescue operations.

Protective gear

Firefighter protective gear, including helmets, fire suits, gloves, boots, and other protective clothing, is indispensable for ensuring the safety of firefighters in their high-risk profession.

The global firefighter personal protective equipment (PPE) market, valued at US $1.81 billion in 2022, is projected to reach US $2.53 billion by 2029, with a 4.9% CAGR between 2023 and 2029.

This growth is driven by strict safety regulations, the escalating severity of wildfires, and the demand for specialised gear designed for challenging firefighting environments.

In parallel, breathing apparatus, especially self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA), is vital when dealing with smoke or toxic gases.

The breathing apparatus market, worth US $2.15 billion in 2022, is expected to expand to US $3.02 billion by 2029, with a 5.1% CAGR.

This expansion is attributed to technological advancements, stringent safety standards, and the increasing complexity of fire-related challenges.

Detection and communication

Handheld detection equipment, encompassing gas detectors, thermal imaging cameras, and smoke detectors, plays a pivotal role in fire safety.

The global smoke detector market, valued at approximately US $1.9 billion in 2018, is projected to reach around US $3.4 billion by 2026, driven by technological advancements, elevated safety standards, and the increasing integration of smart technologies into safety equipment.

Reliable communication equipment is essential for the effectiveness of firefighting operations.

This market segment includes radios, intercom systems, and other communication devices, facilitating robust, clear, and secure communication channels during firefighting missions.

Ongoing technological progress contributes to the development of more sophisticated and dependable communication tools, ensuring seamless coordination and safety during critical operations.

Regional breakdown

In 2022, the global fire safety equipment market was valued at USD 49.82 billion, anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 6.4% from 2023 to 2030.

This growth is largely driven by advancements in wireless sensor networks, increased adoption of wireless fire-sensing devices, and growing awareness about combating fire hazards​​.

North America is dominating the market with a share exceeding 37.0% in 2022, North America’s growth is fuelled by stringent fire safety regulations and norms, rapid commercial and industrial construction development, and quick adoption of advanced technologies​​.

Asia Pacific is expected to register the highest CAGR of 9.2% over the forecast period, the Asia Pacific region’s growth is driven by rapid urbanisation and industrialisation in countries like India, China, and Japan​​.

The Middle East market is significantly influenced by its predominant oil and gas, and mining sectors.

High risks of fire accidents in these industries necessitate advanced fire detection and prevention equipment.

Strict adherence to building safety codes, coupled with rising automation due to smart homes and building projects, are key factors contributing to the growth of the fire safety equipment market in this region​​.

Developments and Outlook

Helmets: Modern firefighter helmets incorporate heat-resistant visors with integrated thermal imaging and heads-up displays, enhancing safety and situational awareness in smoke-filled environments​​.

Thermal imaging cameras: Recent innovations have led to smaller, portable, and more affordable thermal cameras that can be attached to helmets or integrated into handheld devices​​.

Firefighting suits: Advanced fabrics in PPE offer superior protection against heat and flames while remaining lightweight.

Integrated cooling systems help regulate body temperature during intense operations​​.

Robots: Increasingly deployed in hazardous situations, these robots are equipped with cameras and sensors for remote operation, minimising human exposure to danger​​.

Water Mist Technology: Emerging as an efficient and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional water hoses, this technology uses less water and is effective in confined spaces​​.

Drones: Equipped with thermal imaging, drones provide aerial perspectives to locate hotspots and guide firefighting efforts, especially in large-scale wildfires​​.

Exoskeletons: These wearable devices enhance a firefighter’s strength and endurance, reducing fatigue and injury risks during prolonged operations​​.

Communication Systems: Advanced radio systems with noise-cancelling features ensure clear communication even in chaotic environments​​.

The overall market for firefighting equipment is marked by a combination of factors such as technological advancements, stringent safety regulations, increased urbanisation, and the growing awareness of fire safety.

This is leading to a steady growth in demand across all segments, with a particular focus on innovation, efficiency, and safety.

As the challenges in firefighting evolve, so does the equipment, ensuring that firefighters are equipped with the best tools to tackle fires effectively and safely.

This article was originally published in the January 2024 issue of International Fire & Safety Journal. To read your FREE digital copy, click here.

Global fire suppression systems market to reach $28.8 billion by 2030

by Featured NewsFire SuppressionResearch

The global fire suppression systems market, valued at $19.7 billion in 2022, is anticipated to reach $28.8 billion by 2030, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.9%.

This growth is driven by various segments, notably the dry chemical-based segment, which is expected to achieve a CAGR of 5.4%​​.

Impact of the pandemic and market dynamics

The pandemic has heightened awareness of fire safety and security.

However, it has also disrupted supply chains and operations.

Despite these challenges, the market remains competitive, with manufacturers providing comprehensive support services.

Key players are focused on innovation and meeting evolving customer needs.

Notably, the U.S.

market is estimated at $5.8 billion, while China is forecast to grow at a robust 6.3% CAGR​​.

Innovations and regulations driving the market

Innovations are a major force in the market, with advancements in smart systems and sustainable technologies.

The implementation of stringent regulations and the rise in real estate investments are also significant drivers.

The integration of smart technologies like the Internet of Things (IoT) is becoming increasingly important for effective communication between fire detection and suppression systems​​​​.

Regional market insights for fire suppression systems

North America is a key player in the market, with significant demand for advanced fire safety equipment.

Europe and Asia-Pacific regions are also showing strong growth, driven by stringent fire safety regulations and advancements in technology.

The Asian market, in particular, is seeing increasing government investments in infrastructure, contributing to the growth of fire suppression systems​​​​.

Challenges and opportunities

While there are numerous opportunities, the high cost associated with installing advanced fire alarm and detection systems poses a challenge.

These systems are typically custom-designed for specific applications, such as in hospitals or data centers, contributing to their high cost.

However, the integration of fire alarm systems with building automation systems (BAS) offers significant growth opportunities, particularly in smart building systems​​.

IFSJ Comment

The growth of the global fire suppression systems market reflects an increasing emphasis on safety and security in both residential and commercial sectors.

The market’s expansion, driven by technological innovations and stringent regulations, underscores the growing importance of fire safety in modern infrastructure.

However, the challenges posed by the high costs of advanced systems highlight the need for cost-effective and accessible solutions.

The integration of fire safety systems with IoT and BAS represents a promising development, offering enhanced safety measures while potentially addressing cost concerns.

This trend towards smart and interconnected systems not only enhances fire safety but also aligns with the broader movement towards more integrated and intelligent building management systems.

Market Analysis: The future of firefighting foam

by Breaking NewsFire SuppressionResearch

The firefighting foam market witnesses steady growth, driven by evolving industry needs and environmental concerns

The ever-growing emphasis on fire safety, combined with the mounting environmental concerns, has spurred the evolution of the firefighting foam market.

Being a pivotal part of the arsenal against fire-related hazards, especially in high-risk sectors, firefighting foam’s utility spans from aviation to oil & gas.

Custom Market Insights’ (CMI) recent report sheds light on the industry’s trajectories, offering a comprehensive market view.

Firefighting Foam market overview

In 2021, the firefighting foam market was valued at USD 5.5 billion, a testament to its established position in the fire safety landscape.

By 2022, this figure is expected to touch USD 5.8 billion and soar to an impressive USD 6.73 billion by 2030, with a steady CAGR of 3.8% between 2022 and 2030.

Firefighting foam, composed of water, air, and concentrates, isn’t just any fire suppressant; it’s a meticulously designed solution that offers a reliable barrier against fires.

This foam, characterised by a stable mass of air-filled bubbles, has a unique ability to suppress fires by isolating fuel from oxygen.

With a density lower than gasoline, water, and oil, it remains on the surface, providing an effective shield against re-ignition.

Moreover, it has been tailored to address fires involving flammable liquids, offering reliable protection against potential ignition and re-ignition.

In an increasingly industrialised world, the need for such sophisticated fire suppressants becomes more pressing, driving the market’s steady growth.

Growth factors

Rising Incidents of Fire-related Accidents: One of the most immediate factors propelling the demand for firefighting foams is the unsettling increase in fire-related incidents, particularly in high-stakes sectors like oil & gas.

As these sectors continue to expand, the associated fire risks also escalate, necessitating enhanced fire prevention and suppression solutions.

Shift to Environmentally Friendly Solutions: The past decade has seen a significant shift towards environmental consciousness in almost every industry.

In the firefighting foam market, this translates to an increased demand for environment-friendly products.

Traditional firefighting foams, such as AFFF and AR-AFFF, have been associated with environmental concerns.

The industry has responded by developing and promoting fluorine-free foams.

These new-age foams not only match the fire-suppression capabilities of their traditional counterparts but do so without the associated environmental footprint.

They are free from PFAS, PFOS, and PFOA, chemicals of concern in many environmental discussions.

Emerging Oil & Gas Sector: With a surge in global energy needs, the oil & gas sector is expanding at an unprecedented rate.

This expansion, however, brings with it an elevated risk of fires, especially in high-capacity storage and processing facilities.

As a direct result, the demand for firefighting foams, which offer protection against challenging Class A and B fires, has seen a substantial increase.

Consumer Awareness & Regulatory Landscape: Modern consumers are not just passive buyers.

They are informed, environmentally conscious, and demand products that reflect these values.

This consumer push, combined with a stringent regulatory landscape focusing on fire safety and environmental concerns, has spurred the industry towards innovation and the adoption of eco-friendly products.

Market segmentation

The firefighting foam market has diverse product offerings.

The Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF) has been a favourite among many due to its rapid suppression of flammable liquid fires.

However, with rising environmental concerns tied to some of its components, there’s an increasing shift towards alternatives.

The Alcohol-Resistant Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AR-AFFF) has been specifically developed for fires that involve alcohol-based risks.

It’s closely followed by Protein Foam, which is derived from animal proteins and offers a more durable and heat-resistant shield, although with a slower spread rate.

The Synthetic Detergent Foam stands out for its adaptability, making it a preferred choice in scenarios that demand versatility.

Lastly, the Fluorine-Free Foam has been gaining traction rapidly.

It has emerged as a solution to the environmental challenges posed by traditional foams, providing an eco-friendly alternative without compromising on fire suppression efficacy.

“During the year, two major multinational players in the firefighting foam market announced their exit from the fluorinated foam market within the next 6 to 18 months,” comments John Olav Ottesen Founder and CEO of Fomtec.

“In the US, the military has introduced a new military specification for PFAS-free firefighting foam for land-based applications.

“In Europe, the European chemicals agency ECHA passed on restriction proposals, and the legislators are moving towards the introduction of new regulations during 2024, that will set timelines for the phase-out of PFAS in firefighting foam.

The foam market is performing strongly and there is a strong demand for foam products globally.

“We still see a high demand for fluorinated foam, but we also see a high demand for fluorine-free foam.

A shift can be seen in the larger multinational end users that all seem to have transition programs ongoing.

All in all, a very exciting time to be in the foam industry.”

Regional Insights

The firefighting foam market’s regional dynamics paint a picture of varied demand and preferences.

North America is characterised by its extensive oil & gas infrastructure and a dense network of airports.

This makes it a major consumer of firefighting foams.

Yet, the stringent environmental standards, particularly in the US, have fostered a rising demand for fluorine-free foam variants.

In Europe, the commitment to environmental sustainability is evident.

European countries have shown a penchant for adopting eco-friendly firefighting solutions, bolstered by regulatory frameworks and increased public awareness.

Asia-Pacific is witnessing a surge in demand due to its rapid industrial growth, with countries like China and India at the helm.

The burgeoning oil & gas sector, along with infrastructural advancements, cements Asia-Pacific’s position in the market.

The Middle East and Africa, housing some of the world’s largest oil repositories, naturally becomes an indispensable market segment.

The continuous investments in oil refineries and transportation channels amplify this demand.

Finally, Latin America, although historically slower in adoption, is displaying promising growth.

Emerging industries and expanding infrastructural projects in the region are driving the demand for firefighting foams.

This article was originally published in the November 2023 issue of International Fire & Safety Journal. To read your FREE digital copy, click here.

Telgian to host a webinar on fire alarm system communication transitions

by Featured NewsFire DetectionResearch

Telgian expert to discuss the impact of evolving communication methods on fire alarm systems

Telgian Fire Safety’s Tom Parrish will lead a Fire Alarm System Communication Webinar on November 9, 2023, from 2:00 pm – 3:30 pm ET.

“Rapid technological shifts affecting fire alarm communications”, says Parrish

“Telephone companies continue to rapidly replace copper telephone lines with fiber optic lines as part of the phase out of POTS (Plain Old Telephone Service),” says Parrish.

“Also, 3G cellular service is being phased out to focus on the adoption of more modern methods of communication.

“This is driving a major transformation in how fire alarm systems communicate with the monitoring centers.

“There are advancements in older technology such as Mesh radio networks and there are newer avenues of communication methods like the Internet and cellular that will continue to grow rapidly.”

Telgian’s webinar to highlight best practices in modern fire alarm communication

This course aims to shed light on the transitional challenges faced by fire alarm systems amidst these technological advancements.

It will focus on the communications system requisites as stated in Chapter 26 of NFPA 72, National Fire Alarm Code.

Participants will gain insights into optimal practices for transitioning a fire alarm system from using POTS lines to contemporary modes of communication.

They’ll also be apprised of the advantages and disadvantages associated with Internet and cellular communications.

About Tom Parrish, SET, CFPS, PSP

Tom Parrish boasts an impressive tenure of over 30 years in the domain of fire protection and emergency response.

Having retired as the Fire Marshal for Putnam Township Michigan, he currently holds the position of Vice President at Telgian.

Parrish actively contributes to several NFPA technical committees, including those focusing on signaling systems for the protection of life and property and emergency communication systems.

Presently heading AFAA, he also enjoys the privilege of being a senior instructor for NFPA.

His professional accomplishments encompass certifications such as Level IV NICET Certified Fire Alarm Technician, Level III NICET Inspections and Testing, and Certified Fire Protection Specialist.

Parrish is also a recognised Master Electrician and is board certified as a Physical Security Professional by ASIS. He completed his bachelor’s in Industrial Technology from Kean University.

IFSJ Comment

The evolving landscape of communication technology poses both opportunities and challenges for fire alarm systems globally.

With leading companies like Telgian paving the way in understanding and adapting to these changes, it’s crucial for industry professionals to stay informed.

Tom Parrish’s expertise provides invaluable insights into this transition, equipping stakeholders with the knowledge they need to navigate these shifts.

As we move towards more advanced communication methods, understanding their impact on safety systems will be paramount for preserving and enhancing community safety.

Building safety improvements proposed with fire survival circuit cables

by Featured NewsResearchSafety

Addressing building safety concerns

A new white paper has been launched by Wrexham Mineral Cables (WMC) targeting serious concerns regarding building safety systems failures.

Central to this paper is the crucial role that cable specification plays in ensuring safety.

The report can be accessed for free from WMC’s website.

Understanding the role of cables in building safety

The white paper, titled Expecting the unexpected: specifying safety-critical circuit cables for fire survival, was produced in light of increasing concerns over building safety, particularly following incidents like the Grenfell Tower fire.

The paper highlights the importance of electricity supply in safety systems: “Building systems depend on the electricity supply being maintained in order to help keep occupants safe as they evacuate,” WMC states.

Further, it emphasises that the cables supporting these systems play a pivotal role in fire safety.

Choosing the right cables for safety

While both polymeric cables and mineral-insulated copper clad (MICC) cables are labelled as fire-resistant, the paper illustrates that they are not equally effective.

Notably, MICC cables have shown superior performance in real fire situations, highlighting a significant disparity in safety standards.

Despite this, there’s no mandate for the use of MICC cables in safety-critical applications, leading WMC to voice concerns about ongoing risks to both buildings and their occupants.

Improving the understanding of cable performance

After engaging with this paper, those responsible for specification will gain insights into the function and testing of fire performance cables.

It underscores that cables marked as fire-resistant might not always meet expectations in actual fire events.

WMC’s white paper rounds off by underlining the effectiveness of MICC as the true ‘fire survival’ cable, advocating its potential to elevate building safety levels, independent of changes in regulations.

Wrexham Mineral Cables comments on the report

Commenting on the paper’s unveiling, Colin Hughes, Group Manager at Wrexham Mineral Cables, said: “This paper is an extremely important and timely document.

“Questions over the effectiveness of cable testing regimes and current certification methods are nothing new.

“For many years, Wrexham Mineral Cables has made the case for better testing standards – especially for fire performance cables.

“Our paper looks at cable specification in the context of current attitudes towards building safety, and the shifting regulatory landscape – and explains the clear benefits of mineral-insulated copper clad cable – and its role in building safety.

“We welcome downloads from anyone involved in ensuring the built environment is a safer place.”

IFSJ Comment

Wrexham Mineral Cables’ recent white paper offers invaluable insights into the crucial role of cable specification in building safety.

The detailed analysis provided in this document illuminates the significant differences in fire resistance between cable types, shedding light on the potentially life-saving benefits of optimal cable choice.

It underscores the need for continuous evaluation and improvements in safety measures, particularly in the wake of tragic events like the Grenfell Tower fire.

This comprehensive guide serves as a critical tool for specifiers, arming them with the knowledge required to make informed decisions that prioritise both building integrity and human safety.